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Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin: Brasil
ByNot since the dynamic duo's previous collaboration on their Grammy-winning album Harlequin (GRP Records, 1985) have the two leaders decided to record another Brazilian-styled album. Interestingly enough, Lins appeared on one track on that album as he does here once again. Unlike the previous album, on Brasil the cast of players are all Brazilian, the core quintet group consisting of drummer Edu Ribeiro, bassist Bruno Migotto and percussionist Marcelo Costa. Harmonica specialist Gregoire Maret appears on three songs while renowned Brazilian guitarist Chico Pinheiro lends his amazing guitar work on two tracks, including light vocals on his original "Boca Siri" (Keep it Quiet).
The music springs to life on the opening bossa, "Cravo E Canela" (Clove and Cinnamon), which features vocals from Parra and background harmonica from Maret, along with Ritenour's guitar, all making for an upbeat perky beginning. The original Ritenour piece "For the Palms" features Maret with some solo moments, later joined by delicate additions from the guitarist and pianist. Nascimento's "Catavento" brings percussionist Costa to the fore on the introduction and throughout the track accompanied by Grusin on keyboards on a wakeup tune.
Grusin is at the fore with a light introduction on the vocal tune "Vitoriosa" (Victorious), where Lins and Parra join together in providing one absolutely gorgeous and heartfelt performance on this highlight of the session. In another duo vocal performance, which is just as impressive, vocalist Fonseca, who penned the song, teams up with Parra on the delicious "Meu Samba Toro" (My Crooked Samba). The ensuing two tracks feature Pinheiro's guitar on the Jobim instrumental "Stone Flower" and on "Boca De Siri," which follows.
The last two tracks, "Lil' Rock Way" and "Canto Inverno" (Winter Song), are originals from Ritenour and Grusin respectively, featuring Maret's harmonica on the first, then saving the spotlight for both co-leaders on the brief but lush final winter piece. Crafting a warm, inviting and engaging musical statement, the musical partnership of Ritenour and Grusin once again proves successful and very special on the charming Brasil, where the two friends visit the music of Brazil for the second time in their illustrious recording career.
Track Listing
Cravo E Canela (Cloves And Cinnamon); For the Palms; Catavento; Vitoriosa; Meu Samba Torto; Stone Flower; Boca De Siri (Keep A Secret); Lil Rock Way; Canto Invierno (Winter Song).
Personnel
Lee Ritenour
guitarDave Grusin
pianoTatiana Parra
vocalsGregoire Maret
harmonicaIvan Lins
piano and vocalsChico Pinheiro
guitarCelso Fonseca
guitarMarcelo Costa
percussionEdu Ribeiro
drumsBruno Migotto
bassAlbum information
Title: Brasil | Year Released: 2024 | Record Label: Candid Records
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